The UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. Globally, biodiversity loss is part of a 'triple crisis' threatening the social, economic, and environmental systems that are critical to human wellbeing. In these fraught circumstances, the policy decisions we make about nature are vitally important.

Since the 2024 UK general election, progress on nature and biodiversity has not seen the urgent action needed to reverse the ecological emergency. In some areas, such as planning, existing protections are under threat and the prospect of regression is increasingly plausible.

This free online discussion event, hosted by the Institution of Environmental Sciences, will consider the key issues that the UK Government should prioritise in relation to nature and biodiversity. The event will give IES members and the wider sector a chance to feed in to the IES's policy work and its influential 'Our Shared Mission' report.

Ahead of the event, a provocation paper outlining draft priorities will be shared with registrants to facilitate discussion.

Engaging with policy makers

During the five weeks of the 2024 general election period, the IES held seven discussion events with environmental scientists and other experts, aiming to identify the most pressing priorities for the next UK Government. More than 150 professionals attended the events, representing voices from industry, research, government, NGOs, and the wider sector.

The outcome of those discussions was 'Our Shared Mission for Sustainable Wellbeing: 2024-2029 priorities for the UK Government'. The report sets out key policy priorities for many areas of the environment. This event will provide an opportunity to add recommendations to the report around the crucial issues of nature and biodiversity.

We are also holding an event on recommendations for waste and resources.